This week's decision mandates Thien Khanh Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (TP HCM), the entity responsible for marketing the product, to recall and destroy the entire non-compliant batch. The company must complete this process and submit a report to the Drug Administration by 31/1.

The recall stems from product sample tests conducted by the Quang Ngai Drug, Cosmetics, and Food Testing Center at two pharmacies within the Long Chau system. Analysis revealed the product contains propylparaben, an antifungal and antibacterial preservative commonly used in the cosmetic industry. However, this ingredient was not listed in the product's official declaration dossier approved by authorities.

In addition to this violation, the product name "TiACortisol" on the label misleads consumers into believing it is a drug, when it is, in fact, merely a topical cosmetic.

The Drug Administration has assigned the TP HCM Department of Health to directly oversee Thien Khanh Company's recall and destruction efforts. This agency will conduct a comprehensive inspection of the company's compliance with manufacturing and business laws, and will transfer the case to investigative bodies if signs of counterfeit production are found. Concurrently, provincial and city Departments of Health are responsible for notifying pharmacies and retail outlets in their areas to immediately cease selling the product and return it to the supplier.

This assertive action occurs as regulatory bodies tighten control over the pharmaceutical and cosmetic markets, addressing issues of counterfeit goods, substandard products, and false advertising. Just one day prior, the Administration also issued a recall for a batch of feminine hygiene solution containing unauthorized ingredients. According to Statista data, Vietnam's cosmetic market is estimated to reach over 2,4 billion USD in 2024, with 90% being imported, posing a significant challenge for quality management.

Le Nga